During his official presentation this Thursday, Carlos Mangada, a midfielder for Hércules, spoke about coming back to the club after seven years away, stressing that the moment is right to prove why he always wanted to wear the Alicante jersey. The 22-year-old product of the Alicante football culture returns to the club where he trained, following time spent in the youth systems of Villarreal and Espanyol de Barcelona. He acknowledged that interest exists from several parties, and he reflected on long conversations with his father about one day donning the Hércules kit at Rico Pérez. For Mangada, returning to Alicante last year felt like a natural culmination of a childhood dream and a professional ambition that remains close to his heart. He expressed pride in representing a city that has shaped his career from the ground up, and he noted that wearing the Hercules shirt at Rico Pérez carries a meaning beyond personal achievement.
Speaking about the decision to move forward with this season, Mangada described the club’s environment as a surprise in the best possible way. He felt the time was right to take a step forward and commit fully to Hércules, with a clear aim of helping the team reclaim its rightful place in the standings. He emphasized the importance of unity and a shared focus on the club’s future, stating that being from Alicante and belonging to Hércules should not add pressure but rather deepen his sense of responsibility to contribute meaningfully.
He stressed that the team would face each match with a practical mindset and a goal to progress steadily, match by match. Mangada explained that both the supporters and the squad understand what is required, and there is no undue expectation weighing on the players. He assured that his role could bring balance on defense and in ball distribution, providing a sense of security and the power the coach desires from the midfield line. His perspective highlighted how a cohesive midfield can anchor the team’s performance and help control tempo during tough fixtures.
When asked about the ongoing interest in the squad, Mangada recalled a familiar face from his Espanyol days, Javi Lancho, and noted that a player like Lancho can offer valuable contributions to the Alicante lineup. He did not allow any distraction to affect his focus, underlining that the squad remains committed to building momentum together. Mangada highlighted how each training session and friendly match can become a platform to demonstrate readiness for larger challenges ahead, including the pre-season phase where every minute on the pitch matters.
Finally, Mangada celebrated the return of Nico Espinosa, who has been sidelined with injury for several months. He expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to create chances and convert opportunities, noting that persistence and teamwork would translate into results as the season progresses. The midfielder conveyed a sense of calm within the group, trusting that opportunities will continue to appear and that goals will come as the team grows into its rhythm. In his view, the atmosphere around Hércules is one of resilience, collective effort, and a shared determination to restore the club to a position of strength in the league.